Storyteller, Rory Evans, was the individual winner in the Arts and Culture category at the annual PAVO (Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations) awards.

Mr Evans, from Caersws, has been volunteering since he was in primary school.

He tells the stories of Mid Wales. Over the years he has spoken to the older generation and collected the stories of the old Montgomeryshire families so he can pass them on to the younger generations.

His nominator for the PAVO award said: “Rory’s got a huge heart and is always smiling and caring for others. If Rory can help you he will. He cares so much for others and is passionate about his community.”

The PAVO awards were held at the Pavilion Mid Wales in Llandrindod Wells, during National Volunteers Week. During the event, guests were entertained by community singing group Sing Your Heart Out.

Mr Evans uses his knowledge to inspire the younger generation and to raise funds for whatever good causes ask. The total he has raised is in excess of £40,000 and has benefited groups including the Wales Air Ambulance, Heart Foundation, churches, schools, dance groups, community groups, and the homeless through his work for the food bank.

He has raised funds by undertaking ghost-walks and talks and other events such as a sponsored silence. He has also supported artists with the Artists in the Park project and written a book on local ghost stories as well.

Mr Evans is a people person, the awards ceremony was told. He wants to bring pride to youngsters and help them connect to their local community by sharing its cultural history.

For example, he will raise money for a ballet class so they can buy slippers or pay for the bus to get them to a competition. He happily sits in front of school classes telling pupils about their own local culture, folklore and history so they can pass this on to their friends and family.

Mr Evans volunteers because he loves to do so and wants to make a difference.